Cefpodoxime Proxetil for Dogs: Uses and Side Effects

Cefpodoxime proxetil for dogs is an oral antibiotic and has a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. Be it skin infection such as abscess or bladder infection, the antibiotic is found to be an extremely effective against various strains of bacteria.

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Did You Know?

Although cefpodoxime proxetil has not received the consent of USFDA for veterinary use, it is found to be safe for dogs.

Cefpodoxime proxetil is an antibiotic, found to be effective against a variety of bacterial infections in dogs. It is a third generation cephalosporin that is known for its broad-spectrum of antimicrobial activity against bacterial pathogens. The strains of bacteria that cannot withstand this antibiotic treatment are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pasteurella multocida, Staphylococcus intermedius, and Proteus mirabilis. No wonder, the drug with its ability to destroy a range of bacteria, is found to be effective against multiple infections.

Uses

Skin infection such as an abscess or a wound caused by trauma can be treated with cefpodoxime proxetil. Dogs with deep bruises that are often accompanied by infections are also put on this antibiotic therapy. The antibiotic is also effective against respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

Vets may also prescribe cefpodoxime proxetil for bone infections such as osteomyelitis (inflammation of the bone or bone marrow). Dogs with bladder infections that are typically marked by an urge to urinate frequently and formation of cloudy urine with abnormal odor, may also be prescribed an antibiotic course of cefpodoxime proxetil for a duration of 2 to 3 weeks. Ear infections in dogs, often caused by drug-resistant pseudomonas bacteria, are not easy to treat, but may resolve with use of this antibiotic.

Mechanism of Action

Cefpodoxime proxetil exhibits a bactericidal action by disrupting their ability to make cell wall. Cell wall synthesis for bacteria is crucial for their survival as it allows them to divide and grow. However, the antibiotic does not allow the bacteria to form the cell wall, by suppressing the synthesis of peptidoglycan, the main constituent of the cell wall. As a result, the bacteria eventually die. Its ability to inhibit the synthesis of cell wall building blocks works to destroy the bacteria.

Dosage

This antibiotic is available in strengths of 100 mg and 200 mg tablets, and the prescribed dose will vary according to the weight of the dog. Usually, a daily dose of 2.3 to 4.5 mg will be administered for every pound of the dog's weight. In most cases, the treatment does not last for more than a week. However, sometimes, the duration of antibiotic therapy can last up to 4 weeks.

Side Effects

Cefpodoxime proxetil may cause a few side effects, but in most cases, they are not serious. So dogs put on this medication may suffer from decrease in appetite, nausea, and diarrhea. These side effects may eventually subside after a while when your pet's body adjusts to the antibiotic.

Some uncommon side effects that may occur include extra salivation, vomiting, and bloody stools. The drug may also produce hyperexcitability in dogs. These side effects cannot be ignored and require immediate consultation with your vet.

Dogs allergic to this antibiotic may suffer from an adverse reaction that may manifest in the form of skin problems such as hives, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, and even loss of consciousness. In such circumstances, use of the antibiotic should be stopped immediately.

A point to note here is that cefpodoxime proxetil belongs to the class of cephalosporins. So, in case your pet has an allergy to any of the cephalosporin or penicillin drugs, there is a possibility that your pet may also get an allergic reaction from cefpodoxime proxetil due to the potential for cross-sensitivity reactions.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian.